With the product being sold online, several countries are warning their citizens of the risk of infant botulism.
The Ministry of Health has issued a public advisory regarding an international alert about contaminated ByHeart Whole Nutrition baby formula, which has been linked to multiple cases of infant botulism.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the baby formula has been associated with serious illness in infants. Symptoms of infant botulism can include poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, and decreased facial expression.
Parents are urged to seek immediate medical attention if their infant has consumed ByHeart Whole Nutrition and exhibits any of these symptoms. Health officials also cautioned that symptoms may take several weeks to develop, and parents should remain vigilant even after the initial feeding.
While the product is not currently sold in Trinidad and Tobago, the Ministry said the advisory is issued out of an abundance of caution, as some residents may have purchased the formula online.
The Ministry of Health advised the public to immediately discontinue use of the product if in their possession.
Consult a physician if the product has been used or if any adverse effects are observed.
Return the product to the point of purchase where possible.
For more information, members of the public can contact the Office of the Chemistry Food and Drug Division at (868) 217-4664 Ext. 13121.